Kaizer Chiefs manager Nasreddine Nabi has set a clear agenda since his appointment. To eradicate the negative mindset that has plagued the first team and hampered the development of young players. With a focus on both tactical adjustments and mental fortitude, Nabi is determined to reshape the club’s culture.
Nabi has infused fresh energy into Naturena Village through innovative meal settings, dynamic training methods, and a collaborative mindset with his technical team—comprising Khalil Ben Youssef, Majdi Safi, Ilyez Mzoughi, and a dedicated group of analysts. These changes aim to lift morale and drive the team forward, especially after last season’s disappointing 10th-place finish, the worst in the club’s history in the Premier Soccer League.
Detailed assessment leads to changes
Before joining the team, Nabi closely observed the players for six to seven months, compiling an extensive report on their strengths and weaknesses. “I had a very precise idea of the general state of the team and different players that are part of the team,” he explained, as quoted by iDiski Times. He recognized multiple challenges that needed addressing, particularly in the mental aspect of the game.
“When the mental state is not there, the rest—the tactical and physical aspect—will not follow through,” Nabi noted, highlighting the critical link between mindset and performance.
Fans were taken aback when assistant coach Fernando da Cruz departed for Morocco. However, Nabi swiftly brought in Cedric Kaze, a trusted collaborator from his successful stint at Young Africans. Together, they secured double domestic trebles, and Kaze’s experience will further enhance the team’s dynamics.
Nabi pointed out specific mental traits that needed improvement. “The deficit in mentality includes character, winning mentality, and reactions when you lose,” he elaborated. These issues particularly affect young players eager to break into the first team.
“When seniors act like that, it affects the young players who are willing or hoping to join the first team,” Nabi emphasised. He recognizes the immense potential within Kaizer Chiefs’ youth and the urgent need to foster a positive environment.
Creating a positive impact on young talent
Nabi views the negative mentality as a significant danger to young players’ development. “We have big value for young players; if the impact of negative mentality continues, it endangers the character of the youngsters,” he stated. Fortunately, he sees a willingness among players to embrace change as the new season approaches.
A prime example of this shift in mentality occurred during a match against Marumo. “Before, the players would be head down when we conceded the first goal,” Nabi recalled. He encouraged them to be courageous and double their efforts to secure a comeback. “This is a very good example of the change of character and mentality of my players,” he affirmed.
Under Nasreddine Nabi’s leadership, Kaizer Chiefs are poised for transformation. By addressing mental challenges and fostering a winning culture. He aims to unlock the potential of both seasoned players and promising youngsters. The season ahead promises to be an exciting chapter for the club, and fans eagerly await the results of Nabi’s revitalising strategies.
Stay tuned with The South African as the Kaizer Chiefs manager believes that the team had a mental problem that affected everything.
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